Why visit the Emirates?
The United Arab Emirates is not just a futuristic showcase rising from the desert. Before the skyscrapers, it was a region of trading ports, pearl divers, and tribal families who controlled the sea routes to the Indian Ocean. Under British protectorate for over a century—the famous Trucial States—the emirates prospered before gaining independence in 1971 and entering the oil age.
Today, they are clearly looking for a post-oil future: technology, innovation… and a lot of tourism. And it must be acknowledged that the country embraces its excess: Burj Khalifa, artificial islands, gigantic malls, and indoor ski slopes.
It was by taking advantage of a stopover with Emirates that I set foot there for the first time. Just one night, but enough to have fun with my camera between the marina, skyscrapers, and traditional souk. The contrast between the old port and the yachts is striking, and the desert is only a few kilometers away : dunes, 4x4, barbecue under the stars… premium version, obviously.
I had also spotted Ski Dubai (when you live in tropical Asia and have been used to skiing for years, you definitely miss it), but the price quickly put me off. On the other hand, admire the Burj Al Arab From the public beach, it costs nothing and it's still a great setting.
And beyond Dubai, the neighboring Emirate of Abu Dhabi is also worth a visit, with its Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosquemonumental and luminous, or even the oasis of Al-Aïn, more authentic. For speed enthusiasts, Ferrari World is just a stone's throw away.
- Incredible futuristic architecture
- City/desert contrasts
- A stopover that can turn into a real mini-discovery
- High cost (accommodation/4x4).
- It has a "Disneyland" feel with this setting in the desert.
- Strict local laws and codes.
The United Arab Emirates applies very simple rules for most travelers. Good news: French citizens do not need a visa in advance. for a short stay.
Visa for French citizens — 90 days without any paperwork
French nationals automatically receive, upon arrival, a 90-day visa exemption (multiple entries), valid for a period of 180 days.
No online procedures, no forms, no fees: simply present a passport valid for at least 6 months upon entry into the territory.
Free 30-day visa — eligible countries
Some travelers benefit from a free 30-day visa issued upon arrival (renewable once).
This includes, in particular: Germany, Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Austria, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, USA, United Kingdom, etc.
→ The passport must be valid for 6 months after the date of entry.
→ Renewal (for another 30 days) is subject to a fee.
Transit visas (who is affected?)
Transit visas do not concern travelers with a automatic exemption (like the French → 90 days; or the Belgians/Canadians/Swiss → 30 days).
They are intended for:
• Certain nationalities are ineligible to 30/90 day exemptions
• Travelers with a short layover who wish to leave the airport for a few hours
• Emirates/Etihad passengers whose case requires a sponsored visa to enter the UAE
Two formats exist:
• 48-hour transit — free
→ For a short stopover. Non-renewable.
• Transit 96 h — ~50 AED
→ Up to 4 days on site. Onward ticket required.
If you are French (or national of one of the countries listed in the exempt categories), You do not need to use these transit visas.
They offer you no advantage over your exemption.
Before departure: points to check
- Passport valid for 6 months after the arrival date
- Return or onward ticket
- Hotel booking recommended (systematic if visa is required in advance)
- Visa extensions are only processed through ICP or GDRFA depending on the emirate.
GENERAL CLIMATE
The United Arab Emirates has a desert climate: very hot summers, mild winters, low rainfall, and often high humidity on the coast. The main variations occur between the "bearable" period (November – April) and the really hot period (May – October).
- Summer (May to October) — 38 to 45 °C during the day, sometimes higher; high humidity in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Daytime outings are limited.
- Winter (November to April) — 20 to 30 °C, ideal conditions for visiting, hiking or enjoying the desert.
- Infrequent rainfall — some showers in winter, especially February–March.
- Sandstorms — possible all year round, especially in desert areas.
Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Very hot coastal climate in summer, with humidity that can sometimes be difficult to bear. Mild and sunny winters.
- November → April : 23–30 °C, blue skies, pleasant sea.
- May → October : extreme heat; many activities become indoors.
East Coast (Fujairah)
The eastern coast overlooks the Gulf of Oman: a little more windy than Dubai, but temperatures remain similar.
- Best season December → April
- Snorkeling/beach : optimal conditions in winter–spring
Ras Al Khaimah & mountainous areas
Around Jebel Jais, nights can be cooler in winter (10–15 °C). Summers remain very hot but are slightly less humid than in Dubai.
- Winter : ideal for hiking, unobstructed views.
- Summer : hot, but more breathable than by the sea.
Best time to visit the Emirates
- Ideal period November → April — mild temperatures, clear skies, pleasant sea.
- January–February : the coolest weather, perfect for exploring cities and the desert.
- May–October : only if you are travelling for shopping, "indoor" activities or discounted prices.
| Region / Month | Jan. | Feb. | Mars | Apr. | Mai | June | Jul. | August | Sept. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Coast (Dubai, Abu Dhabi) | Ideal | Ideal | Ideal | mixed | Very hot | Very hot | Very hot | Very hot | Very hot | mixed | Ideal | Ideal |
| Interior & desert (Liwa, Al Aïn) | Ideal | Ideal | mixed | mixed | To avoid | To avoid | To avoid | To avoid | To avoid | Ideal | Ideal | Ideal |
| East coast & mountains (Fujairah, RAK/Jebel Jais) | Ideal | Ideal | Ideal | mixed | Very hot | Very hot | mixed | mixed | Very hot | mixed | Ideal | Ideal |
The United Arab Emirates is a federal state, composed of 7 emirates, which function somewhat like semi-independent entities. And if Dubai, which has become a haven for "influencers," steals the spotlight from the others—it's because the majority of travelers stop there.
The 7 official emirates
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
- Sharjah
- Ajman
- Umm Al Quwain
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Fujairah
But in terms of area, it is Abu Dhabi, the capital, which dominates by a great deal, not the city but its emirate, which extends over the whole south of the country, the other emirates being only small pieces stuck at the end of the peninsula.
In most of the major cities, you will find futuristic architecture, surrounded by desert, bordered by beaches, some monumental mosques and even museums of international stature: the country offers an astonishing mix of total modernity and Bedouin heritage.
Here is a clear overview of the main attractions, emirate by emirate.
Dubai
Dubai Marina
Don't expect to see the megayachts of Saint-Tropez (although… depending on the season, it's not far off), but the atmosphere is pleasant in the morning: joggers, soft light, and that green-blue water that contrasts with the futuristic towers all around.
Dubai Creek & Old Souk
For a complete contrast with the modern city: dhows unloading goods, quiet alleyways of the spice souk, a crossing in a traditional "abra" boat for 1 AED. Nothing aggressive: a relaxed atmosphere, far removed from Moroccan souks.
Jumeirah & Burj Al Arab
An absolute icon of luxury, the Burj Al Arab can be seen very clearly from Jumeirah public beach, especially at sunset.
The area surrounding Madinat Jumeirah is a mix of cafes, narrow alleyways, and direct views of the tower. Entering the hotel itself remains difficult for the average visitor.
Burj Khalifa & Dubai Fountain
Impossible to miss: at 828 m, the tower is visible from everywhere.
The fountain show takes place every 30 minutes from 18 pm to 23 pm, with synchronized jets and a daytime version at 13 pm/13:30 pm (14 pm on Fridays). Going to the top remains expensive, but it offers one of the most impressive panoramic views in the world.
Abu Dhabi
Sometimes transliterated as Abu Dhabi, it is the federal capital, much larger and more "laid-back" than Dubai. It is also the richest and most influential emirate.
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque — white marble, immense columns, spectacular prayer hall; one of the most impressive religious buildings in the Arab world.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi — work by Jean Nouvel, monumental dome, collections of international standard.
- Abu Dhabi Corniche — long seaside promenade, well-maintained public beaches.
- Qasr Al Watan — presidential palace open to the public, extravagant architecture.
- Ferrari World & Yas Island — for thrill-seekers and amusement park enthusiasts.
Al Ain
A UNESCO World Heritage-listed oasis city located on the Omani border.
- Al-Aïn Oasis — superb palm grove irrigated by aflaj.
- Al Jahili Fort — symbol of the city.
- Jebel Hafeet — scenic route + fossil caves.
- Camel Market — a typical local scene.
Sharjah
Dubai's neighbouring emirate, more conservative, but culturally very rich.
- Islamic Art Museum — superb collection.
- Heritage Area — traditional restored houses.
- Souk Al Arsah — a more authentic atmosphere than some souks in Dubai.
Ajman
A small emirate attached to Sharjah, simple but pleasant for a quieter seaside break.
- Ajman Corniche — long beach, local atmosphere.
- Ajman Museum — housed in a former fort.
Umm Al Quwain
Probably the least touristy of the seven emirates, but it offers an interesting glimpse into a more local way of life, far from the gigantism of Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Long mangroves line the coast, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching.
- Seneyah Island — nature reserve, gazelles and migratory birds.
- Umm Al Quwain Museum — housed in a renovated former fort.
- Kayaking in the mangroves — a flagship activity of the emirate.
- Dreamland Aqua Park — an old but popular water park with families.
Ras Al Khaimah
The gateway to the northern mountains, with landscapes very different from the rest of the country.
- Jebel Jays — scenic route and the world's longest zip line.
- Wadi Shawka — accessible hikes.
- Quiet beaches — a more tranquil atmosphere than in Dubai.
Fujairah
The only emirate on the east coast, facing the Gulf of Oman. Mountain scenery + beaches = a rather rare combination in the Emirates.
- Snoopy Island — renowned snorkeling.
- Fujairah Fort — one of the oldest in the country.
- Hiking in the Hajar Mountains — a mineral atmosphere, isolated villages.
The Emirates are easy to explore thanks to their excellent roads and relatively short distances between cities. Here are some suggested itineraries depending on the length of your stay.
Quick itinerary — 1 day in Dubai
Having done it myself, one day is very short: but if, like me, you want to take advantage of a little stopover, focus on the icons.
- Dubai Marina — morning stroll around the skyscrapers
- Jumeirah — beach + view of the Burj al-Arab
- Dubai Creek — crossing by abra + spice souk
- Burj Khalifa — evening fountain show
It's a busy day, but doable using metro + taxi.
Suggested itinerary — 3 days
For a short stay, the goal is to combine modern + traditional + seaside.
- Day 1 — Dubai Marina, JBR, tram + Jumeirah Beach
- Day 2 — Old Dubai: Creek, Deira souk, abra, Al Fahidi
- Day 3 — Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, nighttime fountain show
In the evening, the rooftops near the Marina offer a beautiful view.
"Classic" itinerary — 5 to 6 days
This is the ideal amount of time to discover several facets of the country.
- Dubai (3 nights) — Marina, JBR, Creek, Burj Khalifa, desert by 4x4
- Abu Dhabi (2 nights) — Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Corniche, Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Al Ain (1 night) — UNESCO-listed oasis, Al Jahili fort, Jebel Hafeet mountain
This itinerary provides a great overview: modernity, culture, desert, oasis and heritage.
Complete itinerary — 8 to 10 days
This version adds the northern mountains and a more local emirate.
- Dubai (3 nights) Marina, Jumeirah Creek, desert
- Abu Dhabi (2 nights) — Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Louvre, Corniche
- Al Ain (1 night) — oasis + museum + Jebel Hafeet
- Ras Al Khaimah (2 nights) — Jebel Jais mountains, hiking, panoramic views
- Fujairah (1 night) — East coast + snorkeling + old Al-Badiyah mosque
Variant: replace Fujairah with Umm Al Quwain for a mangrove + kayaking atmosphere.
Dubai (DXB) is one of the world's most important air hubs. Flights from France are regularly available direct flights from Parisand, depending on the period, options from Nice.
For direct access:
- Emirates → Flights Paris ⇄ Dubai, sometimes Nice ⇄ Dubai
- Etihad Airways → to Abu Dhabi (1 hour 30 minutes from Dubai by road)
These are two excellent, comfortable and reliable companies, widely used for travel to Asia, the Middle East or Oceania.
Search for a flight to the United Arab Emirates
Traveling to the Emirates
I will mainly focus on Dubai, since that's where I stayed. Between the emirates, it's easy to get around by public bus or taxi, with fares that are often reasonable for the country.
Travel between emirates
- Dubai ⇄ Abu Dhabi
Public buses E100 and E101 — 25 AED (~6 €) per trip.
• E100: terminus south of Dubai (Al Ghubaiba).
• E101: terminus to the north (Ibn Battuta Mall).
Departures every 20–30 minutes depending on the time. - Dubai ⇄ Ras Al Khaimah
Official shuttle from DXB (terminals 1 & 3).
20 AED one way — 45 min — 6 departures per day (between 6:00am and 1:00am).
Designed to promote tourism in this mountainous emirate. - Dubai ⇄ Fujairah
Bus E700 → departure from Union Square Metro Station.
25 AED — approximately 2 hours journey time — hourly departures.
Useful for reaching the mountains and the East Coast. - Dubai ⇄ Ajman
The closest to the Emirates is north of Dubai.
12 AED — approximately 40 minutes.
Frequency: 4:30am → 23:30pm (weekday schedule).
book your trips to the Emirates
Getting around Dubai
Christmas Card
The NOL Card Allows you to use all public transport: metro, tram, bus, and even water buses (boats crossing the canals). Rechargeable, practical, and also usable on some intercity buses. It can be paired with a smartphone for contactless payment (depending on compatibility).
Dubai Metro
Dubai has two lines:
- Red line : north ⇄ south axis, connects the airport to the Marina.
- Green line : winds through the "historical" sector (Deira / Bur Dubai).
Advantages: fast, air-conditioned, very clean, unbeatable price (usually < 5 AED the journey).
Limitation: the city being very spread out, some places (e.g. Burj-al-Arab) remain far away → you have to walk or take a taxi, which is not always ideal in 40°C.
Dubai Tram
Put into service in 2014, the tram complements the metro very well in the southern part of the city. It runs in a loop around Dubai Marina, Jbr and directly connects to the red line of the metro.
- Areas served Marina, JBR, Al Sufouh
- Direct correspondences : DAMAC Properties & Jumeirah Lakes Towers metro stations
- Price : identical to the metro via NOL card
- Frequency every 6 to 10 minutes
- feature : first fully air-conditioned trainsets with glass “platform screen doors”
It's one of the most practical ways to get around the Marina, especially to avoid walking in the blazing sun.
Taxis in Dubai
Surprise: they are affordable compared to the local standard of living.
- Patient Care 10 AED
- Example Airport DXB → Marina ≈ 80 AED (~€20) for 35 km
Official taxis are reliable, meters are mandatory, and air conditioning is always provided. Uber and Careem are also available.
Public buses
The network covers the entire city, with a feature typical of the local climate: air-conditioned rest stops.
Prices: 1 to 4 AED depending on the distance.
Convenient, but dependent on opening hours → less suitable for a quick visit.
Hop-on/hop-off tourist bus
An option if you have limited time: the “hop-on hop-off” panoramic bus.
- Day pass: approximately 220 AED
- Two main circuits covering the major spots
- A "night" version to admire the illuminated city
It's not cheap, but ideal for getting an overview of Dubai in one day.
Between 2005 and 2014, the number of tourists in the Emirates exploded, doubling in one fell swoop. Since then, the figures have been steadily increasing, reaching 20 million visitors annually in recent years.
Dubai is heavily focused on the high-end market: a large number of hotels boast 4 or 5 stars, often with swimming pools, impeccable service, and very spacious rooms. Yet, prices often remain reasonable for this level of service—especially during the off-season.
During my visit, I chose a hotel a little away from the tourist areas but close to a metro station. The result: a 4-star hotel with a swimming pool for around 60 € per night, in an aparthotel format (kitchenette, large space). The establishment has been renovated and renamed since, but the idea remains valid: moving slightly away from the Marina or Downtown allows you to obtain a significantly better value for money.
While testing new rates for the redesign of this page, I noticed that in the low season (late September – early October), superb 5-star hotels can regularly be found around 100 and 150 € at night. Which makes the rates particularly attractive considering the type of service included.
During peak season (November → April), prices easily double or triple. This is perfectly normal: ideal temperatures, high demand, and international events.
- Low season (May → September) Excellent prices, extreme heat.
- High season (November → April) Perfect weather, high prices.
- Areas with good value for money : Al Barsha, Deira, Oud Metha, Business Bay (excluding the seaside).
- More expensive areas : Marina, JBR, Palm Jumeirah, Downtown (Burj Khalifa).
Since I only stayed in Dubai, I'll give you the only option I've tested so far, which remains a good, highly rated option:
I'll also give you two addresses I've found that offer excellent value for money:
- voco Dubai By IHG : close to a metro station (World Trade Centre Metro), 6 km from the Burj Khalifa
- Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai : a more intimate hotel that offers a change from the large towers, in the heart of Dubai Creek and what forms the "old city" (rates from €50 in low season!)
To give you more options, here's the search tool:
The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED). In 2025, it is often around 1 € ≈ 4 AED (order of magnitude).
Mentalist trick: to quickly convert from AED to €, divide by 4.
- Bank cards Widely accepted (hotels, restaurants, malls). A fee of 1–3% may be added depending on your bank.
- ATM They are ubiquitous (airports, metro stations, shopping centers). Check your bank's withdrawal limits.
- VAT 5% is usually included in the prices shown.
- Local hotel taxes A "Tourism Dirham" tax may be added in Dubai (the amount varies depending on the category, typically 7–20 AED/room/night). Similar municipal taxes may exist in Abu Dhabi and elsewhere.
Price benchmarks
Accommodations
- Small budget (non-coastal areas): €45–80
- Medium (3–4★ well-located): €90–150
- Comfort/Luxury (5★, Palm/Marina): €220 and up
Meals & drinks
- Small local restaurant €5–10
- Restaurant with air conditioning/shopping centre €12–25
- "Farang-friendly" restaurant €20–40
- Coffee €3–5 • Water 0,5 L (supermarket): €0,5–1
- Alcohol (licensed bars/hotels): beer €9–14, glass of wine €10–18
Transport
- Metro/Tram/Bus (NOL) : typical journey 3–9 AED depending on zones; pass/day ~20–25 AED (depending on the pass).
- Taxi : pick-up ~8–12 AED (airport ~25 AED), 70–100 AED approx. airport ⇄ Marina.
- Car rental : 25–40 €/day (city car). Fuel : ~2,7–3,3 AED/L (≈0,70–0,85 €/L).
- Salik Tolls In Dubai (gates): charged by your rental agency, expect a small extra charge per passage.
- Intercites (Dubai ⇄ Abu Dhabi type bus): ~25 AED/trip.
Key activities (orders of magnitude)
- Burj Khalifa – At the Top (124/125th): ~180–260 AED depending on the time slot; SKY (148/149th): more expensive (~400–500 AED).
- Dubai Fountains : free show; paid abra ride on the basin.
- Desert Safari (shared): 150–350 AED; private/premium : higher.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi ~60–70 AED; Sheikh Zayed Mosque : free (appropriate attire required).
- Dubai Frame ~50 AED; Aquaventure (Atlantis) ~300–400 AED depending on the period.
- Ski Dubai (snow pass/activities): price varies depending on the package.
Note: These price ranges vary depending on the season and online promotions. Book in advance for popular time slots (sunset at the Burj Khalifa, for example).
For data updated by city (rent, restaurants, groceries…), check out Numbeo, e.g. for Dubai or, Abu Dhabi.
Small budget
Average budget
Comfortable
In terms of safety, we're definitely among the best. Even though I don't see the Emirates in most top 10 lists, the crime rate is low. You could drop your wallet on the street and it would still be there the next day…
So don't worry! The biggest risk is the possibility of heatstroke!
Only areas to avoid: Tunb and Abu Musa islands (Iran–UAE dispute).
Travel insurance — useful or not?
For an urban stay in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, one might think that insurance isn't essential. However, medical costs in the Emirates remain high, and bank card insurance offers limited coverage (low limits, limited or no liability).
Dedicated travel insurance is therefore still recommended., especially if you are continuing your trip elsewhere in Asia or if you want to be properly covered in case of an accident.
- High-quality but expensive private healthcare → subscribe to provident insurance (emergencies, hospitalization, repatriation, 4x4/outdoor activities).
I recommend you Heymondo Travel Insurance (5% discount via my link).
Transparency: if you subscribe via this link, I will receive a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
Vaccines & health prevention
No mandatory vaccinations.
- Up to date : DTP (adult)
- Recommended based on profile: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid (long stays or risky diet), meningitis in certain specific cases.
- MERS-CoV: The Emirates have already reported cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. There is no vaccine.
In case of high fever, cough or difficulty breathing during or after your stay, consult a doctor quickly (in France, call 15 and mention your return from the Emirates).
Hospitals & Care
Medical infrastructure is modern, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Example of a French-speaking establishment:
Franco-Emirati Hospital (Abu Dhabi) — Tel. : +971 2 626 57 21
Keep with you: passport, your insurance details, emergency number.
Laws & behaviors
The Emirates apply the Sharia law :
- Avoid public displays of affection.
- Alcohol is tolerated in authorized places: remain cautious in the evening.
- Zero tolerance for narcotics (even traces).
- Appropriate attire in public spaces; for mosques, headscarves are required for women.
Traveling alone: Very common in Dubai, no particular problem.
Unmarried couples: While theoretically problematic, in practice hotels do not check.
Emergency numbers & useful contacts
- Police : 999
- Medical emergencies: 999 (request a "first responder")
French Embassy in the United Arab Emirates:
Etihad Towers – Office Tower (Tower n°3) – 22nd Floor – PO Box 4014
Abu Dhabi
Tel: +971 60 052 16 68
Emergency number (Nights, weekends and public holidays only): +971 50 613 10 70
Website : https://ae.ambafrance.org/
Travel advice from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (France Diplomacy) : United Arab Emirates fact sheet
